By: Andrew B Weah
Kpailama Agro Business Enterprise, led by CEO Sylvester Kpai Sr., is making significant strides in the agricultural sector by enhancing its palm oil production capabilities and supporting local farmers. With a commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices, the company is set to revolutionize the palm oil industry in the region.
The enterprise boasts a processing capacity of two tons of crude palm oil (CPO) per hour, with a fully operational processing line that can handle production within a remarkable 24-hour turnaround. With 334 acres of its own farmland, Kpailama has chosen to expand its impact by collaborating with local outgrowers. Currently, the company supports 275 farmers in Nimba and Bong Counties, providing them with high-quality planting materials and technical assistance. “Our goal is to empower farmers by offering them support and resources. They can pay us back after three years through the sale of fresh fruit bunches (FFB),” Kpai explained.
The efficient logistics process ensures that harvested fruits are collected promptly, enabling rapid processing and delivery of high-quality oil to markets. Kpailama Agro Business Enterprise has benefited from various forms of support, including a $75,000 grant from the Staffy project, which facilitated the acquisition of a vehicle for aggregation.
Additionally, the enterprise secured a $300,000 loan from ECO Bank, enabling them to enhance their equipment and production capacity. As Kpailama prepares to launch a pilot project for high-quality oil production in July 2026, the company is also focusing on value addition and expanding its market reach. Currently, they have secured contracts to supply oil for school feeding programs in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and are poised to supply several schools in the region. Furthermore, Kpailama is looking to diversify its operations by venturing into aquaculture. With plans to develop a 2.5-hectare fish farm, the enterprise aims to cultivate tilapia and other fish species, providing a local source of protein and enhancing food security in the region. Kpai expressed gratitude to the Liberian government for establishing regulatory frameworks that benefit smallholder farmers.
“The formation of regulatory bodies like LACRA is a significant boost for us, as it helps ensure quality standards and market access for farmers who may not have the resources to navigate these challenges on their own,” he said. With its comprehensive approach to agriculture, Kpailama Agro Business Enterprise is set to become a key player in Liberia’s agricultural landscape, embodying the spirit of community empowerment and economic growth.
As they continue to expand their operations, the company remains committed to improving the livelihoods of farmers and fostering sustainable practices in the palm oil and aquaculture sectors.
